When the Spit-Up Keeps Coming, It Could Be Reflux
- Jul 9
- 3 min read
Updated: 7 hours ago
When Feeding Comes with Spit-Ups, Fussiness and Worry
Feeding your baby is meant to be a quiet, bonding moment. But if your baby spits up often, arches their back after meals, or cries during feeds, it can quickly become a source of stress and uncertainty. At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic in Bukit Timah, we understand how overwhelming reflux can feel, especially in the early months of parenthood.
Many babies experience some degree of reflux, and in most cases, it improves with time. But when symptoms persist or begin to affect feeding, sleep or growth, we are here to help you make sense of it all and guide your baby toward comfort and relief.
What Is Reflux and Why It Happens
Reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux, happens when milk flows back from the stomach into the food pipe. In infants, this is common because the muscle at the bottom of the food pipe is still developing. Most babies with reflux are otherwise healthy and thriving.
There are two main types:
Simple or mild reflux, where babies spit up but feed well and grow normally
Reflux that causes discomfort, also called gastroesophageal reflux disease, where symptoms interfere with feeding or sleep
As babies grow and begin to sit, eat solids and develop stronger muscles, reflux often improves naturally. But for some, support may be needed along the way.
Signs That May Suggest Reflux
Reflux can look different from baby to baby. Some signs that may point to reflux include:
Frequent spit-ups after feeding
Arching of the back or fussiness during or after feeds
Gagging, choking or hiccups after meals
Crying that seems to follow every feed
Refusing feeds or feeding in short bursts
Coughing or congestion, especially at night
Poor weight gain or slow growth in more severe cases
If you have noticed these signs, we are here to listen and take a closer look. Trust your instincts, feeding challenges are never too small to talk about.
How We Support Babies with Reflux at Joyful Seeds
At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic, we begin by listening to your feeding journey. We want to know what you have seen, how your baby has been responding, and how this has affected your daily life.
During your visit, your baby’s care may include:
A gentle examination and review of feeding, sleep and growth
Discussion about positioning, feeding techniques and routines
Advice on small adjustments that may ease discomfort
Support for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding based on your needs
Monitoring of growth and development over time
Medication for more severe cases when clearly indicated
Dr Charmaine Teo and Dr Martha Liu provide thoughtful, evidence-based care that never rushes or pressures. Their aim is to support both your baby’s physical comfort and your emotional confidence as a caregiver.
Caring for You as You Care for Your Baby
Reflux can take a toll on families. From endless laundry to interrupted sleep and feeding struggles, it can feel like an invisible challenge that never ends. At Joyful Seeds, we support the caregiver as much as we support the child.
We guide you through each stage of the journey. Whether your baby needs simple changes or more structured care, we are here with answers, encouragement and next steps that feel manageable. No two babies are the same, and we tailor our support to what works for you and your little one.
Let’s Bring More Calm to Feeding and Comfort
If you suspect your baby may be experiencing reflux, or if feeding has become a stressful part of your day, we welcome you to visit us. At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic, we are here to help you understand what is going on and how to ease your baby’s discomfort with gentle, personalised care. Together, we can help your baby feed, grow and rest with more ease and joy.
